A massive pro-Palestine protest is set to block the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Sunday, causing significant traffic and public transport delays. Tens of thousands of demonstrators are expected to gather in Lang Park at 1pm before marching across the iconic bridge.
Palestine Action Group anticipates up to 50,000 participants despite rainy weather forecasts. The march will begin at 1.30pm via York and Grosvenor streets, crossing the bridge and ending at Bradfield Park by 4pm.
Transport for NSW warns of extensive queues at the Sydney Harbour Tunnel and urges motorists to avoid the area. Bus services will not cross the bridge during the protest, terminating in the CBD or at North Sydney and St Leonards. Trains will run but face delays, while Metro services between Tallawong and Sydenham are replaced by buses due to track work.
Police have urged peaceful conduct, with Acting Deputy Commissioner Peter McKenna stating officers will be present along the route to ensure safety. The protest was allowed after Supreme Court Justice Belinda Rigg rejected a police application to ban it on public safety grounds, noting that disruption is inherent in peaceful protest.
The demonstration has support from organisations including Amnesty International, the Jewish Council of Australia, and the NSW Nurses and Midwives Association. Organiser Josh Lees called the court ruling a 'huge victory' for the Palestine movement.
